The best college student credit cards: unlock perks and build credit

Don't waste time, choose the card that best suits your needs and enjoy all the rewards.

As a college student aiming to establish your credit, choosing the best college student credit cards can have a significant impact. These cards provide excellent advantages, such as cash back, rewards, and low interest rates, simplifying financial management while earning benefits.

Moreover, top college student credit cards typically offer no annual fees and straightforward approval processes. By choosing the right card, you can begin building your credit history early, paving the way for future financial success.

1.  Discover it® Student Chrome

The Discover it® Student Chrome card is an excellent option should you wish to receive cash back while keeping things straightforward. You will receive 2% back on gas station and restaurant purchases, ideal for late-night drives or fast meals on campus. Additionally, it offers 1% on every other transaction, making it an excellent option for nearly all your spending.

A standout advantage? It doubles every cashback amount you accumulate during the first year, essentially increasing your rewards twofold. This means your expenses might be far more valuable than expected. For example, consider purchases like food, eating out—those amounts can stack up fast and make the card truly beneficial for you.

Lastly, without a yearly charge, you won’t have to worry about additional costs. The Discover it® Student Chrome card allows you to build credit without increasing your financial burden. How about taking full advantage of these perks during your time as a student?

2.  Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

If you enjoy exploring new places, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Student card might become your ideal companion. This card allows you to accumulate 1.5 points for each dollar spent, which quickly adds up, particularly when purchasing study materials or picking up snacks ahead of a journey.

No need to worry about complicated reward systems. The points you earn can be applied toward travel expenses like plane tickets, lodging, and holiday bundles. There are no blackout periods or limitations, allowing you to plan your next getaway at your convenience.

An added advantage is the absence of an annual charge. Whether you plan to use it for daily purchases or set aside funds for a vacation, you won’t face extra fees. Furthermore, you’ll earn 25,000 bonus points online after spending a minimum of $1,000 within the first 90 days.

3.  Chase Freedom Rise®

The Chase Freedom Rise® card provides an excellent opportunity for learners to begin earning rewards, particularly with its 5% cash back on changing categories. Think about using it for your daily necessities, it can really add up. Additionally, you will receive 1% for every other transaction, ensuring every expense is rewarded.

Another great feature is the $200 bonus after spending $500 during the initial three months. It’s an easy way to earn some extra money, which is always handy when you are on a student budget. The card is also free of yearly charges, so you won’t have to worry about additional charges reducing your rewards.

In addition, managing the Chase Freedom Rise® is simple, thanks to its easy-to-use mobile app. Regardless of whether you’re tracking your rewards or checking your balance, everything is right at your fingertips.

4.  Discover it® Student Cash Back

If you’re interested in receiving cashback from regular purchases, the Discover it® Student Cash Back card is certainly a suitable choice. It provides 5% cash back on changing categories, making it perfect for learners with busy schedules. Additionally, you will earn 1% for every other transaction.

Another fantastic perk is the cashback match after completing your first year. Discover doubles the cash back you’ve accumulated, meaning your rewards will stretch further. For instance, if you earned $200 in cash back, you will actually receive $400.

Additionally, this card lacks a yearly fee, making it an excellent option for learners wanting to cut costs. It’s a simple and effective way to build credit while making your purchases work harder for you.

5.  The secured Self Visa® Credit Card

If you’re new to credit and want to start building your score, The Secured Self Visa® Credit Card is an excellent option. It works a little differently because you make a deposit to set your credit limit, which helps you get approved even with limited credit history.

What’s great about this card is that it reports your payments to the credit bureaus. This means every on-time payment you make helps build your credit score, which can open doors to better financial products in the future.

Additionally, there’s no yearly fee, so you won’t incur extra costs just for maintaining the card. Regardless of whether you’re purchasing study materials or having lunch on campus, using this card wisely can assist you in building credit while keeping things straightforward.

6.  Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent option for learners who enjoy eating out or having coffee with friends. You will receive 3% cashback on meals, entertainment, and streaming services, making it a fantastic way to maximize your rewards while enjoying yourself.

Furthermore, it provides 1% cash back for every other transaction, ensuring you’re continuously earning. The $50 bonus after your first purchase within the initial three months is a perfect added benefit, particularly if you’re new to using the card.

What makes this card stand out is the absence of an annual fee and the ease of handling rewards. Additionally, there are no foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent option if you are planning to travel overseas for a study trip or vacation.

And that! Finding the best college student credit cards can assist you in building credit while accumulating rewards. With the right card, you can fully optimize your financial opportunities. If you are a student but want to be, how about taking a look at the types of student loans? Find out which one is right for you and take advantage!